Ghana Moves Ahead With Sliding Gold Royalty Regime Despite Pressure From U.S., China

Ghana proceeds with new gold royalty policy aimed at boosting mining revenue despite diplomatic concerns from major global partners.

The Ghana will proceed with a new sliding-scale royalty system for gold mining despite diplomatic pressure from the United States, China, and other Western governments.

According to Isaac Tandoh, chief executive of the Ghana Minerals Commission, the revised royalty framework will take effect this week as the government seeks to capture greater revenue from surging commodity prices. The new system will replace the current flat 5% royalty with a sliding scale that rises as gold prices increase. Under the proposal, royalties could climb as high as 12% when prices approach $4,500 per ounce.

Major mining companies, including Newmont, Gold Fields, and AngloGold Ashanti, have warned the changes could increase operating costs and discourage new investments. Gold remains central to Ghana’s economy, accounting for roughly 40% of export earnings.